29 Feb What is Emergency Heat and When to Use It
Emergency heat, also known as auxiliary heat or “EM Heat” on some thermostats, refers to an additional heating source in a heat pump system. Heat pumps are designed to provide both heating and cooling by extracting heat from the outside air (even in cold weather) and transferring it inside during the heating mode. However, during extremely cold conditions, the efficiency of extracting heat from the outdoor air can decrease.
In such situations, the emergency heat setting activates a supplemental heating element, often electric resistance heating, to assist the heat pump in providing warmth. Unlike the heat pump’s primary operation, which extracts heat from the outside, emergency heat generates heat internally. While this can provide a reliable heat source in very cold weather, it is less energy-efficient than the heat pump’s standard operation. Emergency heat in a heat pump system should be considered in specific situations where the outdoor temperatures are extremely low, and the heat pump alone may struggle to extract sufficient heat from the air.
Here are some scenarios when using emergency heat may be appropriate:
Extremely Cold Weather:
Emergency heat is typically used during periods of exceptionally low outdoor temperatures, where the efficiency of the heat pump’s primary heating mode may be compromised. This is often when temperatures drop significantly below freezing.
Heat Pump Struggling to Keep Up: If you notice that your heat pump is running continuously and struggling to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature during very cold weather, it might be a sign that using emergency heat could provide additional warmth.
Heat Pump Malfunctions: If your heat pump is experiencing malfunctions or issues that affect its ability to extract heat from the outdoor air efficiently, using emergency heat can be a temporary solution while awaiting repairs.
Insufficient Heating: If you find that the heat pump alone is not providing enough heat to keep your home comfortable, activating the emergency heat setting can help increase the temperature.
It’s important to note that emergency heat should not be used as a primary heating mode or for extended periods unless absolutely necessary. While it can provide a reliable heat source in extreme conditions, it is less energy-efficient and can result in higher heating costs.
If you’re unsure whether to use emergency heat or if you’re experiencing persistent heating issues, give us a call or consult with a professional HVAC technician in your area. We can assess your system, identify any underlying issues, and provide guidance on the appropriate use of emergency heat based on your specific circumstances. Regular maintenance of your heat pump system is also key to ensuring optimal performance in varying weather conditions. Give us a call to learn more about our maintenance packages.